Every year on the 17th of March the planet glows in a special green hue, in honour of the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick.
Throughout the world, millions of people gather to celebrate everything Irish and the most famous festivities take place in New York City, Boston and of course Dublin.
With lots of activities and performances taking place during the weekend around St. Patrick’s Day, we’ve chosen some of the main things that you can do, if you find yourself in Dublin during these joyful days.
1. St. Patrick’s Festival Parade
While not as big as the New York Parade, experiencing St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin cannot be rivalled.
Every year there is a theme and you can experience a multitude of takes on this theme as the grand parade makes its way slowly through the main streets, starting at Parnell Square north of the river.
The procession will move down Parnell Street, across the Liffey and then pass the City Hall and St. Patrick’s Cathedral before finishing at Kevin Street.
The parade will include music and floats from all over the world and regardless of where on the route you find it, it will be an experience for life.
2. Walking Tour in the Footsteps of St. Patrick
Go for a guided walk around some of the lesser known sights in the city.
Led by acclaimed author, historian and local, Pat Liddy, this is a great way to enjoy a stroll around the city, while learning more about the legends and the truth about St. Patrick.
The tour takes place through the weekend and includes admission to the St. Patrick Cathedral.
3. Céilí
You haven’t really experienced the Celtic side of Ireland until you have taken part in a traditional céilí. An evening of festivities, fun and lots and lots of music and dancing, this is one of the most entertaining things you can do while visiting here.
Don’t worry if you don’t consider yourself an expert Irish dancer, a céilí is always led by an experienced caller who will announce the various moves as you proceed.
Any great céilí evening will introduce to a great number of classical Irish songs, and even if you should end up making a wrong step, then just smile and enjoy it. It’s all just meant to be a laugh anyway.
4. Greening of the City
See Dublin draped in an emerald hue, as the Greening of the City, which takes place on the 18th of March at 6pm, covers main sights in the colour of St. Patrick.
Stroll around the centre and experience places such as Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the historical General Post Office and The Natural History Museum, among many other buildings, in a light that truly befits the occasion.
5. St. Patrick’s Festival 5K Road Race
If for some inexplicable reason, you find yourself raring to participate in a 5K run while staying in Dublin, then fear not, we’ve got just the thing for you. The aptly named St. Patrick’s Festival 5K Road Race takes you through the scenic centre of the city and finishes at St. Stephen’s Green.
The race is open to people of all ages and fitness levels, and usually features lots of good music, great cheer and scores of runners in fancy dress. The run takes place on Sunday the 19th and starts at noon.
6. Visit the Guinness Storehouse
Lovers of what is arguably Ireland’s greatest gift to the world can try out the perfect pint at the place of its birth. The Storehouse in the St. James’s Gate Brewery is a spectacular temple to the cream and black drink. Tours end up at the Gravity Bar, which offers a great view of the city to go with your glass of stout.
Plan a St Patricks Day Trip to Dublin
That are you waiting for, search flights and book a trip to experience the magic of St Patricks Day for yourself. Although there are festivities all over Ireland, Dublin really is one of the best locations to go.
If you are planning your first trip here view out guide for where to visit in Ireland or check out this amazing 10 day Ireland road trip.
